Rakshith Gowda

That elephant may not be dancing. When a captive elephant repeatedly sways its head or rocks its body in the same pattern, it may be displaying stereotypic behaviour -repetitive movements associated with stress and compromised welfare. That elephant may carry a history of trauma and stress. These behaviours can persist even after conditions improve. One of the biggest mistakes we make is assuming that animals express themselves the way we do. What looks like dancing to us is not necessarily happiness. Before filming, adding music or sharing a “dancing elephant” video, pause. You may be turning a sign of distress into entertainment. Please learn to recognise the behaviour. Don’t circulate it as proof of joy.